Spicy Cajun Shrimp Grits (Printable version)
Bold Cajun shrimp paired with creamy, cheesy grits for a rich, comforting southern dish bursting with flavor.
# Ingredient List:
→ Grits
01 - 1 cup stone-ground grits
02 - 4 cups water
03 - 1 cup whole milk
04 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
05 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
06 - ½ teaspoon salt
→ Cajun Shrimp
07 - 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
08 - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
09 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
10 - ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
11 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
12 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
13 - 4 garlic cloves, minced
14 - 1 small bell pepper, diced
15 - 1 small onion, diced
16 - 2 green onions, sliced, plus extra for garnish
17 - Juice of ½ lemon
18 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
# How to Make It:
01 - Bring water and whole milk to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in grits and salt. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, until thick and creamy, about 20 to 25 minutes. Stir in butter and shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Cover and keep warm.
02 - Combine shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper in a medium bowl. Toss until evenly coated.
03 - Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange shrimp in a single layer and cook 2 minutes per side, until opaque and lightly browned. Remove shrimp and set aside.
04 - In the same skillet, melt remaining butter. Sauté minced garlic, diced onion, and bell pepper until softened, approximately 3 minutes.
05 - Return cooked shrimp to skillet. Add sliced green onions, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Toss and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until heated through.
06 - Ladle creamy grits into serving bowls. Top with the Cajun shrimp mixture. Garnish with additional green onions and parsley.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- It's like sharing a secret spice blend that wakes up your taste buds without overwhelming them
- The creamy grits perfectly balance the bold shrimp, making each bite a soothing, flavorful hug
02 -
- The key to creamy grits is patience; stirring frequently prevents lumps and keeps that luscious texture
- Letting the shrimp cook just until opaque avoids rubbery bites and keeps the dish light and fresh
03 -
- Don't rush the grits; slow and steady stirring makes the creamiest base
- Pat the shrimp dry before seasoning to help that lovely crust form when they hit the pan